Slash has been busy since his departure from rock powerhouse Guns ‘N Roses – first with Slash’s Snakepit, then Velvet Revolver and now with the release of his first solo album, Slash, which features an all-star cast of vocalists ranging from Adam Levine to Lemmy. It was in support of this hard-rocking disc that he stood before the packed house at the House Of Blues in Boston one Wednesday night.
Amidst the blaring, high-octane onslaught of rock, Slash’s groove was smooth and laid-back. His lead tone was as biting and juicy as ever, and his crisp rhythm work was complemented by one of most pure and crushing Les Paul into Marshall tones in the business.
Slash could have dominated the stage all night long, and no one in the audience would have complained. Instead, he showed great humility by allowing his bandmates to shine. Bassist Todd Kerns did an outstanding job filling in on vocals for ‘We’re All Gonna Die,’ Iggy Pop’s contribution to Slash’s self-titled album, and along with rhythm guitarist Bobby Schneck and drummer Brent Fitz, helped Slash churn out a tight and inspiring evening of rock.
The setlist included a good balance of tracks from Slash mixed with Velvet Revolver songs, tracks from both Slash’s Snakepit albums, as well as a healthy dose of classic GNR. The show even included an Alter Bridge track for the sake of Slash’s outstanding vocalist Myles Kennedy, which served to nicely mix up the vibe of the night.
The crowd melted when Slash unleashed his famous rendition of the Godfather theme during his solo, and when he then broke out the opening lick of ‘Sweet Child o’ Mine,’ the already captivated audience glued their eyes and ears to the legendary axeman and frontman Kennedy for the entire epic track. Impressively, Kennedy’s interpretation allowed him to showcase his own powerful voice, while keeping plenty of the original attitude that make the song one of rock’s most memorable moments.
Throughout the song, every single lead was bursting with the soul and fire that only Slash can deliver, and before the song’s closing wails, more than a few manly tears had been shed. After he returned for an encore to play his single ‘By The Sword,’ followed by a thoroughly rousing performance of the classic ‘Paradise City,’ the crowd was begging for him to stay. Sadly, that night in Boston had to end, but it’s clear that wherever Slash chooses to go next, he’ll bring with him his unmistakable brand of genuine, soulful rock.
